Aspiring Performers Audition for Butlin’s Redcoat Role

The role of Redcoat has involved entertaining guests at Butlin’s resorts since 1936, with notable figures like Sir Cliff Richard and Stephen Mulhern having worn the distinctive blazer. BBC News visited Skegness to observe individuals aspiring to perform in this capacity. In a room adjacent to the audition area, a young man nervously scratched his arm, while other hopefuls engaged in excited conversation. Dozens of individuals aimed to impress the judges, seeking to begin their careers in the entertainment industry. The atmosphere was charged with energy, marked by a mix of nervous laughter as candidates discussed their 60-second opportunity to make an impression. Katie Jickells, aged 19, was the first in line, having journeyed over 120 miles (257km) from Huddersfield to attend the auditions. She stated, “That definitely adds to the nerves. I’m nervous being the first one but it’s setting the bar – it’s exciting.” Miss Jickells added, “It’s always been my dream to be a Redcoat. I’ve been coming to Butlin’s since I was a baby, so it’s just a dream really.” Darren Hall, 43, arrived from Melton Mowbray, Leicestershire, accompanied by his acoustic guitar. He commented, “I’m quite nervous. But I’m just going to be myself. Go for it, sing and play, and hopefully impress.” However, the demanding selection process, which included interviews, group activities, and a 60-second showcase, resulted in Mr. Hall’s elimination before he had the opportunity to perform for the judges. That’s showbusiness. Billy Butlin, the company’s founder, established the Redcoat position after observing that holidaymakers were often idle and not interacting with each other or participating in the organized activities. Mr. Butlin then tasked an employee with encouraging guests to participate in games using icebreakers and jokes, a move that reportedly revitalized the atmosphere. The role was officially established with the introduction of a red blazer as its uniform. Friends Stephen Gamage and Joe Jenney, who had traveled hundreds of miles from Leicester and Hull, respectively, to audition, were unaware of each other’s presence until they met. Mr. Gamage remarked, “We’ve had a weird morning.” Mr. Jenney added, “It’s been a little dream of mine for about 10 years now, and now I’m finally old enough to do the audition. I’m ready to rock.” He continued, “I’m incredibly nervous, but I’m excited to do it. I’m ready to give it my best shot.” Mr. Jenney’s skill in creating a mini game show within 60 seconds impressed the judges, and Mr. Gamage’s magic performance was also well-received. As they exited, both individuals were visibly pleased. Mr. Jenney expressed a feeling of relief, a sentiment shared by his friend. Mr. Gamage stated, “I can’t believe I managed to pull it off. I’m really chuffed that me and Joe have survived the one-minute performance, which I think is the scariest part of the day.” Aaron Smith, a current Redcoat at Skegness, is familiar with this experience, having auditioned for the position while employed at one of the resort’s restaurants. Recalling his own path through the selection process, he commented, “I came in really nervous, I hadn’t slept the night before.” He added, “But I went in guns blazing and it was so fun. I’d love to do the audition process again.” Approximately one-third of today’s audition attendees advance to the subsequent stage. Michaela Lorimer, a Butlin’s manager responsible for candidate selection, described the task of eliminating individuals from the process as “really tough.” She conveyed, “Ultimately, it’s awful. We don’t want to do that. But it is really important we find the right person to wear the Redcoat jacket.” As the audition day concluded, Miss Jickells, who had been the first to audition, expressed relief. She successfully navigated the challenging 60-second showcase with a street dance routine involving flipping and body popping. Miss Jickells, who has now advanced to the final stage of the process, stated, “It just feels amazing.” The candidates are currently awaiting the judges’ ultimate decision. For highlights from Lincolnshire, listeners can tune into BBC Sounds, or view the latest episode of Look North. Information regarding potential news stories can also be submitted. Copyright 2024 BBC. All rights reserved. The BBC disclaims responsibility for the content of external websites. Details regarding its approach to external linking are available.